Health warning as winter vomiting bug spreads across Northern Ireland

Kathryn McGowan

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is making people aware of the presence of the winter vomiting and diarrhoea virus, also known as norovirus, circulating in the community.

The virus has been impacting nursing and residential homes, as well as some hospital services.

The PHA recommends simple, practical steps to minimise the risk of contracting the illness and of spreading the virus, especially to older people and those with underlying health conditions who may be more vulnerable.

Dr Lorraine Doherty, Assistant Director of Public Health (Health Protection) at the PHA, said: “It’s not unusual to see an increase in the winter vomiting and diarrhoea virus at this time of year, so we are urging people to take extra care with hand hygiene and, if you have the illness, take simple steps to prevent the spread.

“The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, which can begin suddenly. This can also be accompanied by a raised temperature, headache and sore limbs.

“It is very important that people who have symptoms do not visit hospitals, their GP surgery, or nursing and residential homes. The illness can last as little as 12 hours or up to three days and the best treatment is to stay at home, rest, take plenty of fluids, and reduce contact with others, both in the home and at work.”

The very infectious virus can be easily spread in close-knit communities such as residential or nursing homes, schools, hospitals and workplaces.

The PHA recommends taking the following steps to help protect ourselves and others:

Always maintain good personal hygiene, in particular wash your hands after going to the toilet and before preparing or eating food.

If you are vomiting or have diarrhoea, don’t visit friends or relatives in hospital or residential and nursing homes, and avoid visiting your GP’s surgery – it is much better to phone for advice first.

Stay off school or work, until at least 48 hours after any symptoms stop.

Dr Doherty continued: “The reality for most people is that this is a short-term, unpleasant illness, with most of us getting better within a few days.

“However, we can all play our part in keeping it at bay and helping to protect more vulnerable people, to whom it can present a more serious risk. The PHA greatly values everyone’s help in following this advice.”

For further information for patients and visitors to healthcare facilities on norovirus and how to prevent the spread of infection, visit www.pha.site/leafletsHCAI